Date:         Thu, 24 Aug 2000 13:03:41 -0400
Reply-To:     k1cajun@pipeline.com
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Dave L <k1cajun@pipeline.com>
Subject:      Re: removing bolts

Frank Miller <fmiller01@sprynet.com> wrote:
> Dremel mototool with a cutoff wheel is the way to go. Keep a bunch
> ofcutoff wheels handy because they are fragile.

At 10:00 PM 8/23/00 EDT, Tom Smith wrote:
>> Been there, You'll have to remove the pipe with the Cat & the
>> muffler from the vehicle. With it on the ground you now have to
>> find someway to cut the bolts. Oxy/Acetelene torch or hammer &
>> chisel. It ain't no fun!!!!! Good luck.

I've used a Dremel and like Frank says, you can go through a bunch
of wheels if you don't hold the tool evenly as you cut.  The best
thing to do is use a 4inch or 4.5inch grinder with steel-cutting
wheels.  You can get one for around $60 or so.  Once you've got it
it will come in handy for all sorts of jobs.  Much faster than a
Dremel.  Problem is that you can't get to tight spots like the topside
of the Cat.  Then you need to use the Dremel.  Or remove the muffler,
cat, and pipe as a unit like Tom says.

If you need to replace your pipes, the grinder is the way to go.  Just
cut the things off near the flanges.  Then you've got more room to
work while using whatever tools are necessary to get the flanges off
the heads (since the PO did not use anti-sieze).